This world cup is very different from the previous versions. I’d like to say that’s because of two primary reasons. One, Yeah the World Cup is in India which as you all know is the powerhouse of world cricket with its popularity, money and scandals etc..World Cup is coming back to Asia after nearly 15 years and a lot has changed my friends since then-both Indian Cricket and Indian Media has evolved. Second Reason, there are no clear frontrunners this time. At least seven teams would like to think that they deserve to be in the finals. It is true that India might have a slight edge over others in what to be called a home advantage..but mind you that’s a double edged sword-Home advantage minus the crowd pressure takes you back to where you started. To Summarise, we are in for a real treat this spring. Every team has got legends and match winners but according to me these are the guys who would affect and impact most…

SHANE WATSON

TAMIM IQBAL

VIRAT KOHLI

Unlike last few world cups, Australia would not be expected to dominate outright. But, Shane Watson is one man who would certainly dominate other teams on his day.

One of brightest emerging openers, Iqbal has shown character and consistency lacking in his other Bangladeshi counterparts. World Cup would be a great stage for him to fire against class opponents.

Kohli has been a relevation for India who has earned himself a name in the star-studded Indian batting lineup. Last year he has displayed immaculate temperament in difficult situations and we would like to see more of it.

JESSE RYDER

HASHIM AMLA

MISBAH UL HAQ

Ryder has been out of the team for a while but you can’t count out a man of his calibre. With Mccullum poosibly dropping down the order, it would be upon Ryder to give NZ the starts they need.

Amla is still to play 50 ODIS, yet he is the mainstay of the Protean batting. It’s his style, technique that makes him seem like a pro in the team. His ability to maintain healthy strike rate without risks would be key to his team’s approach.

For a man of Misbah’s talent, he hasn’t got the appraisal or opportunity he deserved. But that is a thing of the past, now he is one of the key members in the side and with great form in his side, Misbah can do some wonders.

YUSUF PATHAN

EOIN MORGAN

DARREN SAMMY

Very rarely it has been the case that a player of the losing team stands out from the rest in the match. Such has been the impact of this Pathan, which would haunt the dreams of bowlers in days to come.

Innovative strokeplay and positive attitude make Eoin Morgan a standout ODI performer. His presence at the lower middle order has been the key to England’s success last year.

Young and talented Sammy is suddenly the captain of West Indies and they wouldn’t be one of the favourites to win the cup. But, this allrounder can prove everybody wrong if it goes his way.

LASITH MALINGA

SHAKIB AL HASAN

Unorthodox action is the first thing which comes to mind when you think about Malinga, but he has evolved to become one of the most dreaded fast bowler in recent times.

Going in as the world’s number one allrounder ahead of Kalis,Vettori & Afridi means he has a lot to do. Also, he is the captain of a side which is historically known to be giant-killers.